01
Right away
- Rinse your mouth with warm water
- Save any pieces in a clean container
- Cover a sharp edge with sugar-free gum or dental wax
- Use a cold compress for swelling
- Avoid chewing on that side
Broken tooth guide
What should I do with a broken tooth?
1 min read · Patient guide
A broken tooth needs assessment to understand the damage. Call Legacy Dental Arts in Eagle River to describe what happened and confirm availability.
Eagle River practice • serving patients since 2007
Patient guidance from the Legacy team
Patient resource
Use this guide to prepare better questions—then call us with them.
02
How we fix it
Small chips are often smoothed or bonded in one visit. Larger breaks may need a crown. If the nerve is involved, the tooth needs root canal treatment first — that part is referred out, and we restore the tooth afterwards. If the tooth cannot be saved, discuss implants, bridges, and removable options with your dentist.
03
Call the same day if…
There’s pain, the break is large, or the tooth is loose. Otherwise call soon—cracks can spread.
General patient education from Legacy Dental Arts · Published · Updated · Not a diagnosis or substitute for individual dental advice.
Helpful questions
Clear answers before you reach out.
Does a broken tooth always need a crown?+
No. Small chips are often smoothed or bonded in a single visit. Larger breaks may need a crown. If the nerve is involved, the tooth needs root canal treatment first; that is referred out, and we restore the tooth afterwards.
Should I save the pieces?+
Yes. Put them in a clean container and bring them with you.
How do I cover a sharp edge?+
Sugar-free gum or dental wax over the edge protects your tongue and cheek until we can see you.
What if the tooth can’t be saved?+
Your dentist can explain implants, bridges, and removable options after an examination. Ask who would provide each treatment stage, where it would take place, and whether a referral is needed.
Before it spreads
Get the break looked at.
Save any pieces, keep off that side, and call us. Cracks tend to spread, and the earlier repair is usually the simpler one.